Eva flies from Doha to Kochi, becomes Kerala's star pet

NEDUMBASSERY: Eva, a one-year-old kitten, became the first pet to be officially imported through the Cochin International Airport (CIAL) after it received the necessary permissions for pet import and export. Eva arrived yesterday at 10:17 am on Air India's AI 954 flight from Doha, marking the beginning of a new chapter for pet owners in Kerala.

K.A. Ramachandran and his son Reneesh, residents of Chelakkara in Thrissur, brought Eva from Doha, where Ramachandran worked as an automobile mechanic for many years. The kitten, initially a guest at Ramachandran’s quarters, was adopted and lovingly named Eva. Ramachandran’s wife, Mini had returned to Kerala earlier and the family ensured Eva's safe journey to join them.

Tomorrow, the facility will welcome another pet traveler—Devika, a native of Kottayam, who is bringing her puppy from Belgium to Kochi.

Kerala's first pet-friendly airport

A month ago, CIAL became the only airport in Kerala to receive Animal Quarantine and Certification Service (AQCS) approval from the Central Department of Animal Husbandry. This approval enables pet export and import, offering services like a dedicated pet station, veterinary assistance and a quarantine facility.

Passengers wishing to bring or take pets abroad must contact their airline or cargo handling agencies for necessary arrangements. For detailed guidelines, visit aqcsindia.gov.in.